Towards Reducing Traffic Accidents on Nigerian Roads: The Role of Engineers

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to investigate the factors responsible for the frequency of accidents rates on Nigerian roads, with special emphasis on Lagos roads. In the course of this study the number of injuries, fatalities and the type of vehicles involved in road traffic accidents were obtained. Efforts made in improving the road transport sectors through reforms to enable it contribute to the socio-economic development of the country were analysed. Major other issues and challenges confronting road transport subsector, that incapacitated the sector into contributing to the socio-economic development of the nation were discussed. The identified problems include misuse of roads, indiscipline, carefree attitude of road users, and poor intermodal transport system, poor road maintenance among others. To carry out this study, information was obtained from car users, lorry drivers, Tanker and Trailer drivers, and other vehicles operators generally. Data base compiled by the Police, Federal Road Safety Commission, Lagos State Transport Management Authority, and other relevant agencies were assessed. Careful study of past works and relevant topics were considered for useful information. The studies observed that the government's desire to introduce reforms capable of improving the service delivery, enhance management capacity, create conducive institutional, legal and regulatory framework to check the excesses of the road users has not yielded much dividends. The unnecessary rivalry and political differences between the organs of State and Federal governments, as to who controls the roads, has done more damage to the smooth operations of the roads in Nigeria.